A Surprising use of LED Lights on your Farm

The speed in which technology progresses and the things those in the industry can come up will never cease to amaze.  One of the latest revolutions in the LED world is growing fast - quite literally!  By using a clever combination of coloured LED light and wavelength frequency, Sony have been able to demonstrate a form of photosynthesis that replaces the need for sunlight. They are literally able to make the grass grow. With the constant changes in climate in the UK it can be hard to grow grass as needed and it frustrates farmers no end when a sudden change in the weather damages their crop. 

Farmers will reap the benefits

Such a breakthrough could prove highly valuable to farmers across the nation. Using red and blue LED bulbs and 66m and 450m wavelength, Brighttuf offers a tremendous opportunity. Currently the technology on offer can be used to cover an area of 90 square meters but as with all things, this is bound to be increased and developed now the know how has been released.

Obviously it will take some time before this is commercially available to all, and as yet Sony are keep quiet on the price tag. Initially it is likely to be quite expensive, but once again we are seeing the benefits of LED lighting and other more cost effective changes could be made immediately to save money and offer better efficiency on any farm. 

Previous attempts using a forced light source for growing grass have been made, but these used halogen technology which has heat emission issues and sadly often wilted the grass it had grown.  LED offers a solution to this issue because it does not emit heat - just the much needed light.  The fact that LED lighting does not emit heat makes it a great cost effective option for many warehouse and animal housing needs. 

Why consider LED lights in your cattle housing

Although the initial outlay may be more expensive than other light sources the advantages offered mean the cost is soon recouped.   The quality of light has been shown to have a positive effect on cattle, and throughout the winter months the natural light quality can be really poor, which can have a knock on effect to milk production.  Changing to LED based lighting in your cattle sheds negates the darkness issues and restores a higher milk production.  LED lighting is also a much nicer light for those working on farms.  It has been shown that a lack of sunlight can create a form of depression known as SAD or Seasonally Affected Disorder, the light given off by LED lights is one of the treatments used, and by default also offers a preventative effect.  The intensity of light from LED lighting is also easily manipulated so, if there are times you do not want such a bright light it can simply be turned down to offer a more muted light.

Cost Savings

Over all the savings to electric bills when using LED lighting over other methods have been shown to be as high as 80% and that really is something worth having.   Consider switching some of your buildings to LED lights and see the advantages for yourself.